Late Saturday and time for a beer!

[Macca]

Ben good all week so allowing myself a can of wife beater. Just the one, mind.

Stella: Because your worth it.

[Gazjam]

I'm off it... :eek:

[Marco]

Ben good all week so allowing myself a can of wife beater. Just the one, mind.

Stella: Because your worth it.

Who's Ben, and just how 'good' was he, baby? :kiss:

Marco.

[Jimbo]

Maybe it's Ben, Stella and Martin:eek:

[struth]

Actually Sipping Stella's Opening right now after my nap.:D

[Jimbo]

And who's beating who?:)

[Macca]

I'm always up for a little experimentation.

[Macca]

I'm off it... :eek:

Off yer head?

Yeah, we know.

[walpurgis]

I've done far too much experimentation. :eyebrows:

[Jimbo]

:eek:

[Macca]

My whole life feels like an experiment. I suspect the results to be inconclusive.

Or result in super powers but with a curse. A bit like Bruce Banner in The Incredible Hulk.

[Barry]

Actually Sipping Stella's Opening right now after my nap.:D

That sounds like oral sex to me!

[struth]

That sounds like oral sex to me!

better than that...tis beer:)

[Marco]

I've done far too much experimentation. :eyebrows:

Yesh, I've seen the contents of your wardrobe! :D

Marco.

[walpurgis]

Yesh, I've seen the contents of your wardrobe! :D

Marco.

Shhh! ;)

[walpurgis]

Better late than never. I'm about to have a nice lager or two (three? :)). Cheers! :cool:

[struth]

Skol young man.:cool: still on number 1

[Macca]

Skol - 'interesting' choice. Not drunk that since the '80s and then only if there was no other option. Used to sell it in the club I worked at - bar staff drank for free but only the Skol or Tetley. I used to make a golden, half and half, made both a bit more palatable.

[Marco]

Skol turns you into a closet rapist.

Marco.

[struth]

Skol - 'interesting' choice. Not drunk that since the '80s and then only if there was no other option. Used to sell it in the club I worked at - bar staff drank for free but only the Skol or Tetley. I used to make a golden, half and half, made both a bit more palatable.

Skol kept well was a very good pint(at least in my neck of woods) It was difficult to get right, as was Belhaven Best on draught.. My barman, Titch could make damn near anything taste good... there is an art to good cellar work.

[walpurgis]

there is an art to good cellar work.

I know. The remains are perfectly concreted over! :eek:

[Macca]

I remember learning how to tap a cask. And change the gas. Like running the engine room of a ship :)

[Firebottle]

When we used to visit Ye Old Horseshoe Inn at Belbroughton the barman was called Murray.

The way he kept and served 'Old Peculiar' was wonderful, such a creamy texture to it, I've never had it so good anywhere else. Sadly this was a long time ago, never to be repeated.

:cool:

[Macca]

We used to do a good drop of Castle Eden.

Used to get in a pub called The Cobden Vaults in Liverpool - they had John Smiths on cask and kept it well. Fantastic drink that. Makes the 'smoothflow' version taste like toilet duck in comparison.

[struth]

Having a wee beer and half tonight. Its been a tough week, and I deserve it :)

[RichB]

3 ciders and putting the world to rights with a pal at the local cricket club tonight. Aka the gang hut. Great night.:cool:

[Ninanina]

Colin's mum passed away a couple of days ago which has just added to a very tough few weeks for me so I am joining in tonight... :cheers:

[walpurgis]

Sorry to hear that Bev.

[Ninanina]

Thanks Geoff... It HAS to get better sometime soon...

[Virtual-Symmetry]

Not had a drink for a long time now. Tea total..

[Oddball]

Not had a drink for a long time now. Tea total..
I was under the illusion Mr Orange in your avatar was having a crafty nip :D

[Virtual-Symmetry]

Don't bother me these days. ive turned into a boring old fart.

[struth]

Beer and a dram tonight, followed by a second beer...Kronenburg 1664 too;)

[RichB]

Working my way through a bottle of chianti...

Spent most of the day working in the garden and had a teatime nap which means I'll probably be up for a while now. Headphone session with Radio Paradise into the small hours.

[walpurgis]

Not Saturday I know, but I'm just enjoying a bottle of Mythos lager from Greece. This tastes absolutely superb, as clean and smooth as the best lagers from thirty years ago used to be. Almost like a dry Champagne. I buy it from Tesco now and then. Well worth trying if you like a good lager.

[struth]

not seen that one. I'm nursing a can of Stella actually lol or maybe its nursing me :eyebrows:

[Virtual-Symmetry]

Not Saturday I know, but I'm just enjoying a bottle of Mythos lager from Greece. This tastes absolutely superb, as clean and smooth as the best lagers from thirty years ago used to be. Almost like a dry Champagne. I buy it from Tesco now and then. Well worth trying if you like a good lager.

i used to drink that all day when we holiday in greek islands. did not know u could buy it over here.

[Firebottle]

.................. just enjoying a bottle of Mythos lager from Greece.

Lovely drink that, Lidl had it in recently on their Greek promo week.
Always asked for Mythos when in Greece rather than the Heineken that was usually offered.

:cool:

[Marco]

Confucious say: Better to have a bottle in front of you, than a frontal lobotomy.....

Marco.

[struth]

Trying that Mythos Beer tonight... thought it was just a myth as well :eyebrows: was in Tesco today and they had it

[walpurgis]

Trying that Mythos Beer tonight... thought it was just a myth as well :eyebrows: was in Tesco today and they had it

You'll like that Grant. :)

[struth]

You'll like that Grant. :)

very drinkable Geoff.... hellish beer though..... oh sorry hellenic ;)

[Barry]

If you can get hold of it, FIX (sometimes it’s spelt ΦΙΞ) is better still.

http://www.fix-beer.gr/en/


The best Greek beer for me though is from a brewery in Santorini, called ‘Yellow Donkey’. Rare enough in mainland Greece, but it’s impossible to find here. They also do an uber-strong beer called 'Crazy Donkey' which will knock your socks off.

http://santorinibrewingcompany.gr/products_en.html

(Actually I’d avoid the Crazy Donkey altogether and stick to either the Red or Yellow Donkey!)

[struth]

If you can get hold of it, FIX (sometimes it’s spelt ΦΙΞ) is better still.

http://www.fix-beer.gr/en/


The best Greek beer for me though is from a brewery in Santorini, called ‘Yellow Donkey’. Rare enough in mainland Greece, but it’s impossible to find here. They also do an uber-strong beer called 'Crazy Donkey' which will knock your socks off.

http://santorinibrewingcompany.gr/products_en.html

(Actually I’d avoid the Crazy Donkey altogether and stick to either the Red or Yellow Donkey!)

It was quite nice; very refreshing, and reminded me a little of Dutch brewed Grolsh in the big bottles. I used to drink that exclusively years ago til it started being brewed in England.
Got a thirst tonight so now having a can of St Ettienne...(Aldi Stella) I see they have changed the can colour so maybe been sued lol still a very good pint for the money though

[struth]

Was in shop again today so picked up another bottle, but having some Aldi Stella tonight with a John Lee bourbon.

[walpurgis]

Was in shop again today so picked up another bottle.

Mmm. Yes. I bought a bottle whilst in Tesco this afternoon.............and promptly dropped and smashed it on the kitchen floor as soon as I got in! Bugger!!

(I'll have to put up with a can of something cheap and cheerful instead :rolleyes:)

[struth]

:doh: hate doing that; just when you have your tastebuds salivating as well. :)

[walpurgis]

:doh: hate doing that; just when you have your tastebuds salivating as well. :)

Yes. I was a bit disappointed. :(



Just started a can of something called ZUBR. Polish for 'super' I believe. Not too bad.

[struth]

Yes. I was a bit disappointed. :(



Just started a can of something called ZUBR. Polish for 'super' I believe. Not too bad.

Sounds positively tu-tonic

[walpurgis]

Sounds positively tu-tonic

Many Polish words are. Similar to English in many ways too. As is German, which in itself definitely has similarities to Polish

[struth]

Beer time for me... got this giant can of something called Sapporo. not sure what it is yet but I'm told it was expensive

[Pierre De Grenoble]

Beer time for me... got this giant can of something called Sapporo. not sure what it is yet but I'm told it was expensiveIt's been 40+ years since I ever drank that but I remember it as a tasteless Japanese lager. just about doable if Ice cold.. It made such an impression on me as a callow youth that I've never touched it again even though you do see it about..

[Virtual-Symmetry]

Ive not had a drink for ages now.. I used to be a mad drinker at one point too.

[struth]

Its ok ...not the greatest but tastes better than I feared.. the can must be made of steel... you cannot bend it in at all

[Pierre De Grenoble]

Its ok ...not the greatest but tastes better than I feared.. the can must be made of steel... you cannot bend it in at allWe took some of that on as bonded stores on the Japanese coast one time.. If It wasn't ice cold it was vile shite...Another one I always remember was an American brew called Falstaff (foulstuff) which got took on when we was up the Mississippi.. It was a guaranteed thing.. I'd drink a second can and have my head over the rail spewing. I tried every day for 2 weeks until we got restored in Rio and it never failed to make me vomit...

[struth]

aye, well this was cold so that may have helped.. getting gassy now its warming a bit... fortunately it nearly finished... not heard of falstaff. One was enough though, and it was free....

[walpurgis]

Don't recall Sapporo as being too bad, not a patch on Mythos though. I find Red Stripe pretty grim, but it's not a lager as such. The Baltika bottled Russian lager which Tesco sometimes stock is very nice.

[struth]

the mythos is quite decent yes... Ive got a case of stella there coz it was on offer.


...i poured the remainder of that away.. it was getting unpalatable as it warmed up

[Roy S]

Good old Holsten Pils chasing down a 12 year old single malt (I'm in training for an all inclusive holiday :))

[Macca]

just trying another of these Polish beers called 'Warka'

usually they're a mixed bag but this is pretty good, smooth and dry. No ABV on the can but one can is 2.8 units! Weird as it tastes quite weak.

[struth]

Not tried many Polish Beers.. One I did try(name escapes me) was revolting lol. Having a quick Stella and dram, then bed I think....maybe;)

[struth]

same as last night I think. just a bit earlier.... cheers all

[dantheman91]

Change tonight chaps

Im on the whisky....with coke....:eek:

Half way through a mini bottle...:)

[Macca]

I always wondered who buys those miniatures, now I know ;)

I'm having a stella to wind down. been up since 6am.

[Macca]

Don't know where everyone is these days but, to paraphrase Emmy Lou Harris, 'It's midnight and I've got 2 cans of Stella'.

Which is what she would have sung if she had moved to Staffordshire and not California. Or was it New York?

In any case it would have worked out differently I'm sure.

[Roy S]

Don't know where everyone is these days

I was in Crete drinking Raki (but found a bar that served draught Guiness to take the taste away :))

http://i562.photobucket.com/albums/ss68/Lodger56/roy%20guiness1_zpsvolvgfls.jpg

[Marco]

You look nicely pee-ashed and relaxed there, Roy! :drunk: :eyebrows:

Marco.

[Roy S]

You look nicely pee-ashed and relaxed there, Roy! :drunk: :eyebrows:

Marco.

Had a good week, put on half a stone but that was more down to the excellent food like this Sea Bass with Pea purée & Cretan greens.

http://i562.photobucket.com/albums/ss68/Lodger56/bass1_zpsdwx9nef5.jpg

[Macca]

Looks good. Might be going to Crete next year. Have a dekko at yer Minoans and that. Plus all the WW2 history.

[Barry]

Looks good. Might be going to Crete next year. Have a dekko at yer Minoans and that. Plus all the WW2 history.

Well worth the visit. Whilst you're there check out the Fix beer (I prefer it to the commonly available Mythos). :)

[Barry]

At the moment slurping a quite acceptable 2014 Aussie Cabernet Sauvignon.

[walpurgis]

I tried some Korev (daft name) Cornish lager whilst away. It's quite pleasant, with an unusual, aromatically flowery character. Not your regular lager, that's for sure.

[struth]

Think that is wheat beer. Ive tried a wheat beer before and didnt like it, but not this one... think it was German... you seem to have liked it though.

[Barry]

Think that is wheat beer. Ive tried a wheat beer before and didnt like it, but not this one... think it was German... you seem to have liked it though.

I like wheat beers: don't be put off by their cloudy appearance.

[Marco]

Had a good week, put on half a stone but that was more down to the excellent food like this Sea Bass with Pea purée & Cretan greens.

http://i562.photobucket.com/albums/ss68/Lodger56/bass1_zpsdwx9nef5.jpg

Very nice - but that's all pretty healthy stuff. Any weight gain will mainly be due to the Guinness and (perhaps) lack of exercise. Some 'horizontal jogging' will soon sort that out! What are the barmaids like? :eyebrows:

Marco.

[Roy S]

Very nice - but that's all pretty healthy stuff. Any weight gain will mainly be due to the Guinness and (perhaps) lack of exercise. Some 'horizontal jogging' will soon sort that out! What are the barmaids like? :eyebrows:

Marco.

Desserts were my downfall. There were some very attractive barmaids and waitresses at our hotel but I'm sure my companion might have expressed her displeasure if I had tried to pull one ;)

[struth]

Desserts were my downfall. There were some very attractive barmaids and waitresses at our hotel but I'm sure my companion might have expressed her displeasure if I had tried to pull one ;)

Aye, by removing the meat n two veg

[Roy S]

Yes, the souvlaki wouldn't have been the only meat to get skewered.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Marco]

Hehehe.... Yes, some of the Greek desserts are rather nice. I'm partial to Baklava, or even a Rum Baba done properly!

Have you tried any Retsina? Not my thing really, but it works with their desserts, finished off with nice strong, 'gritty' Greek coffee.... :eyebrows:

Marco.

[struth]

Tis all Greek to me.


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[Roy S]

Not keen on Retsina or Raki, Ouzo's ok

[struth]

Not so Late, but Saturday at least... Our town Gala Day so starting early with a big bottle of "KEO" never tried it b4, but its apparently from Cyprus.:cool:

[Marco]

It's nice lager, mate. I've had it before a few times :)

Marco.

[struth]

It's nice lager, mate. I've had it before a few times :)

Marco.

lol, just popped back on to say just that... Its very nice.. would have it again anyway.:)

[Virtual-Symmetry]

Not keen on Retsina or Raki, Ouzo's ok

First time we ever went to Cypus it was on our wedding Honeymoon, The hotel had been informed of this in hope we were guarantee the sea view we were promised. When we arrived in the room we were presen'turd with a small hamper a couple bottles of wine as well as this smallish bottle of clear drink [Raki]. Me thinking it was Ouzo, stuck the lot in a glass & woofed it down the hatch. Yep bad move that was, nearly blew my brains out

[Ninanina]

Not Saturday but close enough... a bit early but who cares :)

[Marco]

Maybe finish off with a 'cucumber sandwich' later? :eyebrows:

Marco.

[struth]

Cheers Bev..might join you later

[Marco]

Wot, while she has her 'cucumber sandwich'? :eek: Hehehe... Kinky.... :eyebrows:

Aperol spritzers for us now, with loads of ice - gorgeous!

Marco.

[struth]

I should be so lucky ;) ..no, no, just opened a big bottle of Amstel Bier.... Nice stuff this, and made in Edinburgh

[Macca]

It has been a lovely warm day here. Best in a long time. And it is almost 2130 and still broad daylight.

Work tomorrow so no drinking for me, just two pints of Stella.

[Marco]

Is that a bit of an oxymoron? :eyebrows:

Marco.

[struth]

having a Keo again.. nice beer

[brian2957]

Hah ! Drank gallons of Keo when we were in Cyprus years ago :)

[struth]

Tis very good, and my system seems to like it...hic

[walpurgis]

Well it's Friday, not Saturday, but I shall have a beer later.

I deserve it. I've been valeting the car for a day and a bit, so I can flog it. I'd forgotten how much damn work it takes to do it right! :)

[Barry]

A couple of Peroni 'Nastro Azzurro' during the day, but a couple of glasses of 2012 Chateau Moulin de Sales, Lalande de Pomerol with tonight's dinner.

[JohnJo]

Well it's Friday, not Saturday, but I shall have a beer later.

I deserve it. I've been valeting the car for a day and a bit, so I can flog it. I'd forgotten how much damn work it takes to do it right! :)

Photos required !!

Funny how they drive better when they're clean :D

[walpurgis]

Photos required !!


Not finished yet.

Not driving it either. Don't want to put more miles on.

[Virtual-Symmetry]

I'd forgotten how much damn work it takes to do it right! :)

My motto is keep on top of things.. :eyebrows:

[Roy S]

Ended up with Vodka tonight (how did that happen?, don't even like the stuff) oh well, cheers :cool:

[Virtual-Symmetry]

That is one drink i honestly do not see the point in drinking.

[Barry]

That is one drink i honestly do not see the point in drinking.

But it's good stuff with which to clean your stylii. :D

[Pierre De Grenoble]

But it's good stuff with which to clean your stylii. :Dvery true, but after decades of practice I can defo say that vodka does not give BAD hang overs (it's all relative :D ) such things matter in the morning :sofa:

[Joe]

That is one drink i honestly do not see the point in drinking.

a) It gets you pissed

b) It can't be smelt (smelled?) on the breath

c) It doesn't give you a hangover

[Pierre De Grenoble]

a) It gets you pissedb) It can't be smelt (smelled?) on the breathc) It doesn't give you a hangover

B is deffo wrong.. the missus has a nose like a bloodhound... :rfl:

[walpurgis]

the missus has a nose like a bloodhound... :rfl:

She must be a bit funny looking then. :eek:

[Virtual-Symmetry]

What id do for a jinki Beer but i made a promise never to drink again :)

[Joe]

What id do for a jinki Beer but i made a promise never to drink again :)

You should have kept your fingers crossed when you promised.

[Marco]

very true, but after decades of practice I can defo say that vodka does not give BAD hang overs (it's all relative :D ) such things matter in the morning :sofa:

Neither will anything, if consumed in moderation... :eyebrows:

Quite honestly, and at the risk of sounding like a 'killjoy', these days I don't see the attraction of getting drunk, especially on your own. That shit lost its appeal for me when i was about 18! ;)

Brits have an unhealthy obsession with alcohol. An occasional drink is fine and can actually be GOOD for you (reducing stress levels), but some folks go way overboard.

Marco.

[Virtual-Symmetry]

Which can lead to near serious consequences

:whistle:

[walpurgis]

Well it is Saturday, so I'm having a lager or two. Cheers! :cool:

[Barry]

Me too - tonight it's a couple of bottles of Becks.

[Macca]

Brits have an unhealthy obsession with alcohol. An occasional drink is fine and can actually be GOOD for you (reducing stress levels), but some folks go way overboard.

Marco.

Climate is your answer. This country if it is summer it is raining and then winter dark, cold and raining. And you wonder why we like a drink? ;) Go further north to Scandanavia they have terrible problems with alcoholism. Pitch black and freezing for half the year.

[Tim]

I disagree Martin, I think we're just a bunch of pissheads.
;)

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[Marco]

I think you're both right, as both points are valid, and I'm sure relevant.

The thing that scupper's Martin's point as being the main or deciding factor, is that I've lived in the UK all my life, up in Scotland for a big part of it, which is colder, darker and rainier than anywhere, and yet (aside from my daft teenage years) I've only ever drunk in moderation.

Why? Because the culture (Italian) I've been brought up in is entirely different from the British one, in terms of drink (and food), therefore the dark, rainy days and nights haven't turned me into an alcoholic, simply because I've been brought up to respect alcohol, not ABUSE it - and that's your *real* answer to the problem... ;)

So I guess Tim's summed it up: Brits are a bunch of pissheads! :eyebrows:

Marco.

[Tim]

It's a very simplistic assessment, but wholly valid I think. It is as you say Marco, cultural.

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[Marco]

Yup.. At the end of the day, culture defeats the weather, hence why when it's warm and sunny, I don't believe that alcoholism in the UK goes down!! ;)

The other contributory factor, I believe, is one's state of mind. Inherently happy people don't need to get drunk and use alcohol as a form of escapism... And let's not forget that excessive alcohol intake acts as a depressant, so it's a vicious circle......

However, at the end of the day life's too short to worry about this, that and the next thing, so my advice is simply to do whatever makes you happiest, and to enjoy life for whatever time you have left here on this planet.

Something's gonna get you in the end, so better to die happy than miserable!! :cool:

Marco.

[Macca]

My point was the weather influences the culture.

But never mind ;)

[Tim]

I agree Martin, but I think as far as Btits are concerned it matters not what the weather is like, it's quite deep routed in our psyche. I saw a documentary about it once, they claimed our conquering past and naval history has a lot to do with young males propensity to drink and fight. Who knows though, but we do seem to still like doing both?

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[Macca]

I think the propensity for young males to fight is testosterone. The sub-culture that makes it acceptable, and the heavy drinking, are a British thing, though.

My personal theory is that it stems from the industrial revolution, when cities grew very quickly and became very crowded. Law and order was minimal, so the willingness to stand up for yourself and protect you and yours was essential. Sorting out problems without recourse to authority was commonplace. Those who were not able would rely on the 'cock of the walk', 'Big Stan' or whoever, who would step in and sort it for you. The other party might also have his allies. So you get that whole 'gunslinger' thing going on - who's the toughest? Who gets to say what goes? And this was resolved by fighting.

[Marco]

My point was the weather influences the culture.


I wouldn't rule it out completely, as I'm sure it has some influence, but why then, after living for 35 years in Glasgow (of all places, lol), and having been subjected to countless dark rainy days and long, cold winters, did I not turn into an alcoholic. or rather a typical British drinker, if the weather influences the culture?

For me, as Tim says, it goes *much* deeper than that. Your culture is something you're born with, instilled in you by your parents and grandparents, and so the chances are (weather aside) you'll embrace what you were taught, in that respect by them, or watched them do when you were young.

In effect, what you experience in your early years, 'shapes' you as an adult :)

I can assure you that the behaviour of my parents (and all my relatives) in that respect, is precisely why I've grown up, not only to respect alcohol and drink it in moderation, but enjoy fine food and wine! ;)

Marco.

[Marco]

My personal theory is that it stems from the industrial revolution, when cities grew very quickly and became very crowded. Law and order was minimal, so the willingness to stand up for yourself and protect you and yours was essential. Sorting out problems without recourse to authority was commonplace. Those who were not able would rely on the 'cock of the walk', 'Big Stan' or whoever, who would step in and sort it for you. The other party might also have his allies. So you get that whole 'gunslinger' thing going on - who's the toughest? Who gets to say what goes? And this was resolved by fighting.

Yes, I also think that is part of it. However, we're probably entering the domains now of class difference, as if you weren't brought up in some inner-city slum, or something of that ilk, the above is a total anathema, and thus will be completely alien to your culture and upbringing.

I couldn't have grown up in an more different environment to what you describe, hence why I don't have that 'ethic' (for want of a better word) instilled in me.

Marco.

[walpurgis]

There were plenty of 'pub brawlers' in my locals. Funny thing is, they kept well clear of the odd few guys who did combat training, such as boxers and martial arts exponents. The fellers who actually could be dangerous, were generally peaceable, even with a beer or two in them. It's part of their culture, 'you don't take it onto the streets'!

[struth]

I'd agree much of it is cultural.. Not all though.. I think it is getting better although slowly. Ive not been in a pub more than a couple of times in years and that was not for long. Quite frankly i dislike pubs as such now. Dont mi!d an occasional meal in onecwith a couple of beers though. Last 2 times i was in a pub were after funerals.
My mum didnt drink and dad didnt go to pubs but had a whisky at home sometimes...

[Macca]

I stopped going regularly when they banned smoking. Fucking nanny state nonces. Now my two locals have closed down I don't go at all except for the occasional meal in one of these 'gastro' places.

As a lad in Liverpool I used to tend bar in the local WMC - always busy and packed on a Friday, Saturday and Sunday. That's gone now, all the regulars died off and the younger generation must have found something else to do with their time and money. Unlike most places, in Liverpool what pubs are left are packed day and night there. That culture is still hanging on there. You can go to a pub round where I live and be the only person in. Won't be long before they are all gone.

[Marco]

I stopped going regularly when they banned smoking. Fucking nanny state nonces.

Now now, nicotine boy :eyebrows: what about the non-smokers who equally have the right to go into any pub they wish, and not come out smelling like a rancid ash tray, or worse, with the onset of lung cancer, as a result of spending hours passively inhaling second-hand fag smoke? ;)

The answer, of course, was proper segregation, not banning smoking altogether. Problem is, implementing proper segregation in pugs costs money, introducing outright bans doesn't! :doh:

Marco.

[Macca]

No, no, don't get me started. I can feel a big rant coming on.

[Marco]

:lolsign:

Same here then, 'cos as a strict non-smoker, I have mega strong views on the matter! ;)

Marco.

[Macca]

You're probably already dead then , from last time you were round at mine ;)

[Marco]

Lol... Yes, but that's *your* house, so you're entitled to do what you like in it/have it how you like, which I respect - a pub is a very different thing! ;)

Marco.

[Macca]

A pub is the landlord's house. So it should be up to him. None of the government's business, or anyone else's.

[Macca]

Many, many years ago now I used to frequent a great pub. Stay behind as long as you liked, any night. All the sports channels on an illegal hook up. They sold hooky gear, smuggled tobacco and even weed - although the weed smokers had to go outside if they wanted a puff of it. Total screw the rules anarchy.

They got busted in the end, though.

[Arkless Electronics]

A pub is the landlord's house. So it should be up to him. None of the government's business, or anyone else's.

This is indeed the way the law see's it... to the extent that there is actually any written law on the matter which is very little. It is something I have a huge issue with and have even lobbied my useless local mp about it! Landlords have far too much power with no checks and balances whatsoever! A landlord can bar you 'cos you have a big nose and he doesn't like people with big noses and as unfair, ridiculous, and out of order as this is, there is nothing you can do about it... no higher authority you can take your case to, no appeal process. A law came in to protect people against prejudice on the grounds of religion , race or sexual preference and now it is illegal for a landlord to bar or refuse service on these grounds.... BUT the law also says that a landlord need give no reason for barring someone! So, he can bar gay or black people all day long so long as he doesn't give a reason!

Where else in modern society is any individual given such power as judge, jury and "executioner", with no checks and balances and even with the tacit understanding that he may well be acting purely on personal prejudice, be having a bad day or whatever, and his decision can not be challenged by anyone, anywhere?

I began this crusade after (yep here it comes folks) being barred myself from a favourite local pub after complaining about the attitude and lousy customer service from a particular young barman... It is a busy pub with no shortage of custom and I guess it was easier for the manager to bar me than to discipline a member of staff he would have to continue to work with.... that's when I thought "you can't do that! I'm the unhappy customer complaining about the poor service fer christs sake! I'll take this as high up as possible!" and found that as bang out of order as he was there was sweet FA I could do about it! The law badly needs changing!!!!

[Macca]

The origins go way back to when the pub was often just the front room of someone's house.

You should be able to ban someone from your own house, whatever the reason.

The problem you ran into Jez was not really the law but the way the pub trade has gone in the last 30 years. Corporations have taken over so it is a manager not a landlord, staff are just wage slaves rather than working there because it is a good laugh. No different to a MacDonald's. You're not a customer just a number on a till receipt.

[Marco]

A pub is the landlord's house. So it should be up to him. None of the government's business, or anyone else's.

That's a very good point, but also a big problem, as Jez has outlined, because it breeds 'mini-Hitlers', who then proceed to create their own little fiefdoms, disguised as pubs!

Thing is, my argument is for INCLUSION, as opposed to exclusion, which is why proper segregation between smokers and non-smokers, in ALL pubs, would've been the answer, so that both smokers and non-smokers could've done what they wanted, without imposing their choices on others, rather than BANNING anything.

Surely that's the answer, rather than being sat inside some insular and cliquey 'closed shop', disguised as a PUBLIC bar, catering for one specific type of clientele?

However, this is the crux of the matter for me:

If the best beer in town, as so often is the case, is served in the 'dingy old man's pub', as opposed to the 'shiny new trendy bar', then in a FREE COUNTRY I should be able to drink there, should *I* choose to do so, without having to walk out afterwards stinking of a rancid ash tray - and I'd have been able to have done that, if I could've used a properly segregated (and well ventilated) non-smoking area, situated far enough away from the smokers, so that I wasn't forced to indirectly indulge in their filthy habit.

Why should *I* be deprived of drinking in that pub, and enjoying the best beer in town (or be forced to suffer drinking the inferior variety served elsewhere), simply because I'm a non-smoker, and so don't wish to inhale the stench of cigarette smoke while I'm there? In a FREE COUNTRY, I should be able to drink where *I* like, in ANY pub in town, whilst inhaling fresh air, devoid of rancid cigarette smoke.

Similarly, and just as importantly, in a FREE COUNTRY, with proper segregation in pubs, smokers would've been allowed to smoke away, until their heart's were content, without being dictated to by nannying governmental policy, and having one of their legitimate life's pleasures unfairly taken away from them and banned!

The government should've provided sufficient grants to have allowed pubs to have been able to afford to implement such segregation, thus allowing everyone who enjoys a drink to have done what they wanted (smoked or not smoked inside pubs), in a FREE COUNTRY, instead of implementing such ill-considered and dictatorial legislation. *That* is what should've happened....

At the end of the day, it should've been about INCLUSION for everyone, not exclusion for those whose human rights, one way or the other, weren't deemed as having been important enough to practice! :exactly:

Marco.

[Macca]

I agree, broadly speaking. Of course such a plan would have been a lot easier if the breweries hadn't ruined the character of their pubs by knocking all the little rooms together into one big drinking barn. I've never met a single person who thought that to be an improvement.

[Marco]

Me neither, I can't stand it, as it's completely soulless.

I enjoy sitting in cosy little booths, where you can relax in peace, and have a quiet drink and a conversation with friends, without having to listen to the ramblings of some twats, frequently high-pitched cackling females on a hen night, or some such, or boorish and loud-mouthed males, both of whom like the sounds of their own voices way too much! :doh:

In that respect, one of my favourite city centre pubs is The Roscoe Head in Liverpool: http://www.roscoehead.co.uk/

Check out that cosy little snug on the right - a superb place to sit, with the log fire burning, sipping some quality local ales, on a cold winter's day (or night) - and the beer is FAB! :cool:

You may know it, as it's been there for years.....

Marco.

[Macca]

I don't know it. But then there are thousands of alehouses in Liverpool.

[struth]

That's a very good point, but also a big problem, as Jez has outlined, because it breeds 'mini-Hitlers', who then proceed to create their own little fiefdoms, disguised as pubs!

Thing is, my argument is for INCLUSION, as opposed to exclusion, which is why proper segregation between smokers and non-smokers, in ALL pubs, would've been the answer, so that both smokers and non-smokers could've done what they wanted, without imposing their choices on others, rather than BANNING anything.

Surely that's the answer, rather than being sat inside some insular and cliquey 'closed shop', disguised as a PUBLIC bar, catering for one specific type of clientele?

However, this is the crux of the matter for me:

If the best beer in town, as so often is the case, is served in the 'dingy old man's pub', as opposed to the 'shiny new trendy bar', then in a FREE COUNTRY I should be able to drink there, should *I* choose to do so, without having to walk out afterwards stinking of a rancid ash tray - and I'd have been able to have done that, if I could've used a properly segregated (and well ventilated) non-smoking area, situated far enough away from the smokers, so that I wasn't forced to indirectly indulge in their filthy habit.

Why should *I* be deprived of drinking in that pub, and enjoying the best beer in town (or be forced to suffer drinking the inferior variety served elsewhere), simply because I'm a non-smoker, and so don't wish to inhale the stench of cigarette smoke while I'm there? In a FREE COUNTRY, I should be able to drink where *I* like, in ANY pub in town, whilst inhaling fresh air, devoid of rancid cigarette smoke.

Similarly, and just as importantly, in a FREE COUNTRY, with proper segregation in pubs, smokers would've been allowed to smoke away, until their heart's were content, without being dictated to by nannying governmental policy, and having one of their legitimate life's pleasures unfairly taken away from them and banned!

The government should've provided sufficient grants to have allowed pubs to have been able to afford to implement such segregation, thus allowing everyone who enjoys a drink to have done what they wanted (smoked or not smoked inside pubs), in a FREE COUNTRY, instead of implementing such ill-considered and dictatorial legislation. *That* is what should've happened....

At the end of the day, it should've been about INCLUSION for everyone, not exclusion for those whose human rights, one way or the other, weren't deemed as having been important enough to practice! :exactly:

Marco.

It was about stopping people smoking, more than saving non smokers.The smoke police do gooders were wetting themselves. Smoking has decreased and so has the tax generated. Most of the pubs closed ... Supermarkets made money. Now people will live longer putting a bigger strain on resources.
Think it was said once that they had a nice balance going for lifespan to tax taken in; :D

[Marco]

I don't know it. But then there are thousands of alehouses in Liverpool.

Indeed. Apparently, it was one of Lennon's 'old haunts'.

Next time you're in Liverpool, I'd thoroughly recommend it. It's 2 mins from Chinatown, heading back towards Bold St, down a little alleyway. The beer is superb - no wonder it's won so many awards from the Camra Good Beer Guide! :)

Marco.

[Marco]

It was about stopping people smoking, more than saving non smokers.The smoke police do gooders were wetting themselves.

I detest folk like that, much the same as I do the self-appointed traffic police: 'I *will* hog the outside lane of this motorway and not let you pass, even though I could move into the middle lane, because I'm doing 70 mph, thus entitled to be here, and so I won't shift for anything' :mental:

Pathetic, jumped up waste-of-space wankers! :wanker: :wanker:

Marco.

[Joe]

I think the propensity for young males to fight is testosterone. The sub-culture that makes it acceptable, and the heavy drinking, are a British thing, though.

My personal theory is that it stems from the industrial revolution, when cities grew very quickly and became very crowded. Law and order was minimal, so the willingness to stand up for yourself and protect you and yours was essential. Sorting out problems without recourse to authority was commonplace. Those who were not able would rely on the 'cock of the walk', 'Big Stan' or whoever, who would step in and sort it for you. The other party might also have his allies. So you get that whole 'gunslinger' thing going on - who's the toughest? Who gets to say what goes? And this was resolved by fighting.

It easily pre-dates the Industrial Revolution. Henry V is mostly about English people knocking seven shades of shit out of foreigners of any description, and Hogarth's Gin Lane depicts a sozzled urban population years before the Industrial Revolution kicked off. Paradoxically, or maybe not, Britain, despite its violent past, is one of the few major European countries to have escaped any form of totalitarianism or dictatorship.

[Marco]

Henry V is mostly about English people knocking seven shades of shit out of foreigners of any description...

That's rather funny! 'Old Blighty knocking Johnny foreigner into touch'. But I really shouldn't laugh.....

Marco.

[Joe]

That's rather funny! 'Old Blighty knocking Johnny foreigner into touch'. But I really shouldn't laugh.....

Marco.

Why not laugh? Shakespeare was taking the piss out of that sort of xenophobic patriotism as much as he was celebrating England's victory over the French.

[Macca]

It easily pre-dates the Industrial Revolution. Henry V is mostly about English people knocking seven shades of shit out of foreigners of any description, and Hogarth's Gin Lane depicts a sozzled urban population years before the Industrial Revolution kicked off. Paradoxically, or maybe not, Britain, despite its violent past, is one of the few major European countries to have escaped any form of totalitarianism or dictatorship.

Hogarth was well into the industrial revolution period. 'Gin Lane' was 1751.

[Marco]

Why not laugh? Shakespeare was taking the piss out of that sort of xenophobic patriotism as much as he was celebrating England's victory over the French.

Lol.....because I think it's fundamental to what makes the 'undesirable element', football hooligans, etc, amongst the (mostly well-adjusted and friendly) English people, 'tick' - but we'll keep that for the other thread ;)

Marco.

[Joe]

Hogarth was well into the industrial revolution period. 'Gin Lane' was 1751.

Thus pre-dating the Industrial Revolution:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Industrial_Revolution

'The Industrial Revolution was the transition to new manufacturing processes in the period from about 1760 to sometime between 1820 and 1840.'

As I'm sure you know, 'Gin Lane' was protesting against the influx of cheap gin from Holland, which was elbowing out good old-fashioned English beer, which never did anyone any harm. Its companion piece was 'Beer Street', showing plump, well-nourished folk in a prosperous setting:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beer_Street_and_Gin_Lane#/media/File:Beer-street-and-Gin-lane.jpg

[Joe]

Lol.....because I think it's fundamental to what makes the 'undesirable element', football hooligans, etc, amongst the (mostly well-adjusted and friendly) English people, 'tick' - but we'll keep that for the other thread ;)

Marco.

At this point, let's hear a more neutral view from Messrs Flanders and Swann:

The English, the English, the English are best
I wouldn't give tuppence for all of the rest.

The rottenest bits of these islands of ours
We've left in the hands of three unfriendly powers
Examine the Irishman, Welshman or Scot
You'll find he's a stinker, as likely as not.

Och aye, awa' wi' yon Edinburgh Festival

The Scotsman is mean, as we're all well aware
And bony and blotchy and covered with hair
He eats salty porridge, he works all the day
And he hasn't got bishops to show him the way!

The English, the English, the English are best
I wouldn't give tuppence for all of the rest.

Ah hit me old mother over the head with a shillelagh

The Irishman now our contempt is beneath
He sleeps in his boots and he lies through his teeth
He blows up policemen, or so I have heard
And blames it on Cromwell and William the Third!

The English are noble, the English are nice,
And worth any other at double the price

Ah, iechyd da

The Welshman's dishonest and cheats when he can
And little and dark, more like monkey than man
He works underground with a lamp in his hat
And he sings far too loud, far too often, and flat!

And crossing the Channel, one cannot say much
Of French and the Spanish, the Danish or Dutch
The Germans are German, the Russians are red,
And the Greeks and Italians eat garlic in bed!

The English are moral, the English are good
And clever and modest and misunderstood.

And all the world over, each nation's the same
They've simply no notion of playing the game
They argue with umpires, they cheer when they've won
And they practice beforehand which ruins the fun!

The English, the English, the English are best
So up with the English and down with the rest.

It's not that they're wicked or natuarally bad
It's knowing they're foreign that makes them so mad!

For the English are all that a nation should be,
And the flower of the English are Donald (Michael)
Donald (Michael) and Me!

[struth]

Diddly

[Joe]

Diddly

Bit early in the day for that, surely?

[Arkless Electronics]

I detest folk like that, much the same as I do the self-appointed traffic police: 'I *will* hog the outside lane of this motorway and not let you pass, even though I could move into the middle lane, because I'm doing 70 mph, thus entitled to be here, and so I won't shift for anything' :mental:

Pathetic, jumped up waste-of-space wankers! :wanker: :wanker:

Marco.

Spot on! I always undertake such tossers.

[Marco]

....whilst offering them a well-earned 'two-fingered salute', as you undertake them, and once you've passed, observe the ridiculously pained expression of said imbecile in your rear view mirror! :eyebrows:

Marco.

[Firebottle]

I've done it myself but with such imbecilic behavior to start with you do wonder if they will do something stupid.

:rolleyes:

[struth]

Becoming my Friday tipple.. a big bottle of Keo

[walpurgis]

It's Friday not Saturday, but I feel the thirst for a beer coming on. A bit later I think. :D

[struth]

Having some Bourbon :cool:

[Macca]

Had a can of Stella last night after 3 weeks dry. Ripped my face off. So I've got two in for tonight. :)

[Macca]

It is late Saturday night and so time for a beer. Shop was much depleted already by the time I got there so ended up with a couple of San Miguels. Not my first choice, it's a bit too gassy.

Anyway, cheers all!

[struth]

Stella for me tonight. slipping down nicely,.... and the beers ok too;)

[Pete The Cat]

2x Adnams Explorer.

Bottled.

Nice.

Pete

[Macca]

Stella for me tonight. slipping down nicely,.... and the beers ok too;)

Stella Stevens? Grrrrrr

Mind you she must be in her seventies now.

[Macca]

2x Adnams Explorer.

Bottled.

Nice.

Pete

Blimey! A Connoisseur! Have to warn you now this is more a winos round a bonfire sort of thread ;)

[struth]

Well its lateish monday and time for a drink. Breathing is poor and if I'm gonna go Im taking this bottle with me :D

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160704/01df8c4ac8a3438a0c1a448da0a6d783.jpg

[Firebottle]

Coo that looks wonderful.

Just got in from getting a late evening flight in, after the weather wasn't playing ball earlier.
Now enjoying a nice Ambre beer, Abbaye de Vauclair stocked by Lidl.

:cool:

[struth]

was very nice.. had 2 ;)

had the bottle for some time. was waiting on a good excuse, but it never came so Ive got stuck in.. dear stuff

[struth]

Time for a beer... still have some Stella so that will do fine. Quite like it actually, and not as gassy as some.

[dantheman91]

Few Beers =7 + pigging out the fridge getting a bit of fat-er

and watching Only Fools and Horses - If They could see use now...

[walpurgis]

I shall indulge tonight, in an hour or so. Nice drop of Lager.

[Ali Tait]

Quaffing some McEwan's Export. Yum Yum!

[Barry]

Quaffing some McEwan's Export. Yum Yum!

That used to be my regular tipple when I was an undergraduate. Sadly though I haven't drunk it in ages.

[Marco]

Quaffing some McEwan's Export. Yum Yum!

That's pure chib juice! Two cans of that, and it's out with the Claymore! :D

Marco.

[struth]

Got a claymore somewhere.. I confiscated it off the boy years ago and hid it... Cant remamber where though... There was a japanese one too.

[Ali Tait]

A Japanese Claymore? :-)

[Ali Tait]

That used to be my regular tipple when I was an undergraduate. Sadly though I haven't drunk it in ages.

I used to drink Tartan Special until they stopped making it, Export was the next best thing..

[Ali Tait]

That's pure chib juice! Two cans of that, and it's out with the Claymore! :D

Marco.

Just the thing for a wee rumble on a Saturday night..

[struth]

A Japanese Claymore? :-)

Aye;)... The jock one would chib it though lol

[Ali Tait]

:D

[Pierre De Grenoble]

Got very very lucky this morning @ The bootie Three 80's bottled Malts and I'm chilling and trying them all washed down with a cold Kronie or Two.

quite a buzz just cracking those seals....

The Inchgower is a particular joy. :cool:

http://i1326.photobucket.com/albums/u647/PierreDeGrenoble/ThreeMalts_zpstfbllkrr.jpg

[walpurgis]

Bit early for me. I'm an evening tippler.

[Pierre De Grenoble]

Bit early for me. I'm an evening tippler.So am I mostly, but hey ho, it is the weekend.. and I've got nothing else to take care of.. :D

[struth]

A couple of Cardhu golds and a Keo beer. Toast the launch of the new speaks :cool:

[Macca]

Stella again as I'm boring. I get stuck in a rut with my booze choice. Of all the lagers I rate Stella quite highly. It has a taste, unlike some lager, not to strong, and not too gassy if you decant it into a mug.

[struth]

The Keo is rather nice, and comes in a big bottle. one lasts all night usually, as long as you have enough whisky ;)

[Jonboy]

Mount gay Rum and ginger ale for me, nice just sitting here chilling with some sounds

[dantheman91]

Tuesday and 4 pints of special brew.....:eek:

Oh well already drowning my sorrows....:) you think cleaning would be no one else business but oh no you always get one thats knows best ...:rolleyes: supervisor or not....

[walpurgis]

Well it's Friday night and the family has gone away for a day or two (Whoopee! :)) and it's nice and peaceful, so I'll be having a beer or two soon. I deserve it! Cheers.

[struth]

enjoy

[Macca]

Guinness. Watching Time Team. It's all happening here.

[struth]

Polishing off this bottle of Cardhu gold malt. If Ive got to go, I'm taking it with me :D Marvellous drink by way.

[struth]

well late Friday anyway... Stella again; she's such a tart :eyebrows: and a wild turkey to follow

[Roy S]

Curry, cornetto & a drop of red tonight. Cheers

[walpurgis]

Yes. I think I'll open a lager shortly. Cheers! :cool:

[Macca]

Chicken fried rice and Guinness here. I must be nicely toasted as I'm watching Homes Under The Hammer again and I can't do that sober.

[struth]

Chicken fried rice and Guinness here. I must be nicely toasted as I'm watching Homes Under The Hammer again and I can't do that sober.

Thank god I'm not emptying your chanty tomorrow :lol:

[brian2957]

Nightshift tonight :( Just as well I don't partake :D

Enjoy yer night gents :D

[brian2957]

Chicken fried rice and Guinness here. I must be nicely toasted as I'm watching Homes Under The Hammer again and I can't do that sober.

Your head will be under the hammer in the morning Martin :lol:

[struth]

beer tonight with whisky chaser lol... I'm splashing out as I won the lottery :D £10.30 :eek:

[brian2957]

Congratulations mate :carrot::drunk:

[struth]

Congratulations mate :carrot::drunk:

would have been better with a few more zeros before the . :lol:

[Macca]

Got Stella round my place tonight (ho ho)

[struth]

aye, she gets aboot.:eek: got a hold o' her waist masel'

[Macca]

Can be feisty.

[Barry]

Shepherd Neame - 'Spitfire'

http://www.spitfireale.co.uk/beer

[Ninanina]

A nice Rioja for me now... :cheers:

[Macca]

Where have you been?

Guinness here with Shola Amar. On the stereo of course, although she'd be very welcome to pop round as long as she brings her own booze. I've only got six cans.

[Ninanina]

Where have you been?

Guinness here with Shola Amar. On the stereo of course, although she'd be very welcome to pop round as long as she brings her own booze. I've only got six cans.

I've been away for a couple of weeks and only just catching up with everyone here... :wave: to all xx

[Ninanina]

Nice whisky for me now... had a very upsetting funeral today so I need it... :(

[walpurgis]

Nice whisky for me now... had a very upsetting funeral today so I need it... :(

Oh no. Very sorry to hear that Bev.

[Ninanina]

Thanks Geoff...

I think this year is weddings and funerals... already had the first wedding and 2 funerals and another wedding to go in August.... strange as the last wedding I went to was about 40 years ago...;)

[walpurgis]

Getting a bit thirsty. I think I feel a beer or two coming on soon. Cheers! :cool:

[struth]

just opened a Bud. It was on offer, and a decent drink too. goes especially well with Bourbon:cool:

[Roy S]

Just in, time for a nightcap, cheers :cool:

[struth]

Time for a beer...Budweiser

[walpurgis]

Time for a beer...Budweiser

Yes. In about an hour I'll be joining in.

[Macca]

Had a few Guinness and I'm nicely toasted.

[Roy S]

Buttermilk chicken burger (doubled up) washed down with 4 pints of Guiness lunchtime at Wetherspoons, steak & chips with Shiraz tonight, big day out in Camden tomorrow :cool:

[Macca]

'Shiraz' - she sounds exotic. :) Are you sure she will be happy with steak and chips? It isn't 1977 any more...

[Roy S]

'Shiraz' - she sounds exotic. :) Are you sure she will be happy with steak and chips? It isn't 1977 any more...

Chucked in a cornetto, what more does she want?

[struth]

Up the crack of dawn tomorrow. You'd like her

[jollyfix]

Dragon stout, nice, Guinness foreign extra, even better....

[Roy S]

Up the crack of dawn tomorrow. You'd like her

I understood that nothing could be finer than to be in Carolina in the morning?

[Macca]

She was a secretary's daughter but she wasn't my type.

[Barry]

Boom boom!

But back on track (well sort of):

2011 J-P Moueix Private Reserve, Pomerol.

[Marco]

Have you tried that Haut-Médoc I gave you yet? :)

Marco.

[Marco]

Chucked in a cornetto, what more does she want?

A suck on your big Flake? :D

Marco.

[Barry]

Have you tried that Haut-Médoc I gave you yet? :)

Marco.

Not yet - it's being reserved to celebrate the completion of 'phase one' of the house we're having built. Nearly there ..... ! :)

[Marco]

Ah I see.... Nice one. What else is involved in completing 'Phase One' - the installation of a water bed? :eyebrows:

Marco.

[Barry]

Ah I see.... Nice one. What else is involved in completing 'Phase One' - the installation of a water bed? :eyebrows:

Marco.

The installation of water supply (connection to an artesian well), wireing and connection to the electricity supply, ....

[Marco]

Indeed, plus ceiling mirrors in bedrooms don't come cheap ;)

Marco.

[struth]

Time for a drinky... its Tiffin time ...yee-ha!

[walpurgis]

http://i63.tinypic.com/mmbfpk.jpg Hmm. To beer or not to beer? ..... That is the question. Maybe. A bit later.

[Macca]

It's a bit later now so time for a drink. Although had a half of Cobra with a Balti earlier. Don't know why anyone rates it, nasty stuff.

[struth]

This just hove into view

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160806/f4c816c4f0d7ed9daeea20f309045f46.jpg

[Marco]

It's a bit later now so time for a drink. Although had a half of Cobra with a Balti earlier. Don't know why anyone rates it, nasty stuff.

Was it draught or bottle? The latter tastes like stagnant piss in comparison with the former, if its served ice-cold :)

My fav Indian beer (or one with a curry) is Lal Toofan: http://www.laltoofan.co.uk/

Marco.

[Macca]

The Cobra? It was draught and cold, not had it in years and forgot I wasn't much for it. I think the alternative was Carling so Hobson's choice really.

[struth]

Quite like the Carling draught they serve up here, when ice cold. might be stronger than the English stuff mind. Times Ive tried it in England, although years ago, it wash weak slops lol. Amstel on draught is a great drop of Lager.

[Macca]

Yes they have made it stronger over the years. No-one wants weak beer anymore it seems. It's still a fairly bad lager though.

[walpurgis]

Yeah. Carling and Cobra are 'last resort' lagers. Nasty!

[Macca]

When I was poor I used to drink some terrible stuff. There was one that came in a yellow can, forget the name, 5% and 45p a can, a bit like Tenants Extra only with a hint of drain cleaner. They did another one in a red can that was 8 or 9%. There was also one called Titan that you could get in Bargain Booze, 50P a can and 8%. Real joy juice but ideal for the alky on a tight budget. They all disappeared when the cheap super-strength ciders arrived. They couldn't compete on price because of the lower tax on cider.

[walpurgis]

Remember K2 lager? It was grim stuff.

[Macca]

I don't remember that being around for long. I was always quite fond of Grunhalle. It used to get slagged off for being fake German lager but it was quite a good tasting beer, not too strong and just a bit sweet.

[Ninanina]

Monday is the new Saturday tonight... :cheers:

[Roy S]

Sinking a few tonight after a fairly dry weekend driving, having a look round Lincoln & Newark. Nicer than I expected, Newark's a nice place but the people all seemed so miserable :(

[Macca]

Well, it's late Saturday night so who's boozing?

[walpurgis]

Well, it's late Saturday night so who's boozing?

Ah. I wondered when we'd get around to that. :)

I have a nice drop of Perla lager for a bit later. Not bad for east European stuff.

[struth]

I'm on water at moment; does that count?

[Macca]

Boating trip?

[walpurgis]

I'm on water at moment

Jesus did that too. Good trick if you can master it. :D

[Barry]

Some 2008 Chateau Ramage La Batisse, Haut-Medoc

https://www.calaiswine.co.uk/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/750x/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/r/a/ramage_la_batisse_2008_magnum.jpg

13% ABV, £23 a bottle.